Wales prepare for Argentina clash
Wales prepare for Argentina clash
Wales lock Adam Beard is preparing for his team’s fixture against Argentina this Saturday, hoping to replicate a past winning experience in San Juan. Beard was part of the Wales squad that secured a 23-10 victory against the Pumas eight years ago in the same city. Other players from that 2018 squad who are also in the current team include wing Josh Adams and prop Dillon Lewis, both of whom started in the previous match. Aaron Wainwright made his Test debut from the bench in that game, while hooker Ryan Elias, who is set to earn his 50th cap this weekend, was also a replacement. Scrum-half Tomos Williams was an unused player in that fixture.
Beard reflected on the passage of time, noting how quickly eight years have passed since their last visit. He acknowledged Argentina as a proud nation with a strong rugby side. Despite changes to the squad since their last win, Beard expressed optimism for a positive outcome this weekend. The upcoming match, part of the Nations Championship, will take place at the Estadio San Juan del Bicentenario in San Juan, a venue with a capacity for over 25,000 spectators.
Beard described the atmosphere created by hostile crowds as something rugby players and sports professionals seek out. He views experiencing different crowds and teams as a valuable aspect of the sport, and stated that the team is looking forward to the weekend’s game. The match is scheduled for Saturday, 11 July, with coverage available on various platforms.
Overcoming challenges and looking ahead
Beard, who will earn his 67th cap on Saturday, has worked to maintain his place in the Wales squad over the past year. He experienced a challenging performance against France during the Six Nations, which included a kick attempt that led to a French try. Following this, Beard was moved to the replacements bench, with Ben Carter partnering Dafydd Jenkins for the remainder of the tournament.
He admitted that the start of the Six Nations, particularly the France game, was not his best, acknowledging costly mistakes he was not proud of. Beard used this period for reflection and adapted to a different role coming off the bench. With Exeter captain Dafydd Jenkins sidelined from Wales’ summer matches due to a shoulder injury, Beard returned to the starting lineup for the opening Nations Championship victory against Fiji.
Beard emphasized that he did not take the opportunity for granted and felt he delivered a strong performance. He highlighted the importance of seizing such chances. At Beard noted the presence of many quality second-row players in Wales and expressed his continued desire to contribute to the Welsh jersey. He has completed a demanding first season with French club Montpellier, which included a Challenge Cup success, before rejoining the Wales squad just days before the Fiji game.
Steve Tandy, the Wales head coach, who also coached Beard at the Ospreys, praised Beard’s response to adversity. Tandy described Beard’s performance last weekend as one of his best for the team, highlighting his character and dedication in helping the squad prepare after the France defeat. Beard’s drive to regain his starting position has been outstanding, according to Tandy. Beard’s season will conclude after the upcoming matches against Argentina and South Africa in Durban.
Team changes and expectations
Head coach Steve Tandy has made three changes to the Wales team that defeated Fiji at the Cardiff City Stadium. One significant decision is the move of Louis Rees-Zammit to the bench, with Ellis Mee starting on the wing for the trip to San Juan. James Botham has been named at blindside flanker, replacing Alex Mann, and Sam Costelow will start at fly-half, a widely anticipated selection.
Ryan Elias is among the replacements and could achieve his 50th Wales cap, while Kane James is also on the bench, aiming for his senior international debut. Tandy explained these selections ahead of the clash with the Pumas. He noted that Joe Hawkins has played well at center for Scarlets, and Max Llewellyn provides coverage at both 13 and wing. Tandy expressed confidence in the group and the players taking the field, highlighting the excitement of Rees-Zammit coming off the bench when the game opens up.
Tandy described Argentina as a formidable team with considerable depth, noting the return of Kremer, a player with many caps. He anticipates a passionate and hostile atmosphere but views it as an exciting Test match and an opportunity for the team to gain experience. Tandy also commented on the selection of Kane James, describing him as an exciting, powerful, and quick player who has integrated well into the team environment without hesitation. He believes James thoroughly deserves this opportunity. The Wales team will be led by captain Dewi Lake.
The last time Wales played in Argentina, over eight years ago, they secured a 30-12 victory in Santa Fe. That match featured tries from Josh Adams and Hallam Amos, with a late consolation try from Julián Montoya and another from Bautista Delguy. The upcoming match against Argentina is scheduled for Saturday, 11 July.
Read Also
Source: bbc.co.uk